Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Introdutcion

When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of gingerbread wafting through the house. This year, I decided to try my hand at making gingerbread cookie bars, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint! These bars are super soft, almost fudge-like in the center, and topped with a delicious frosting that brings everything together. My family absolutely loved them, and they quickly became a favorite treat for our holiday gatherings. Whether you prefer a classic buttercream frosting or a tangy cream cheese option, these bars are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love These Gingerbread Cookie Bars

1. Easy to Make: Unlike traditional gingerbread cookies that require rolling and cutting, these bars are simple to prepare and bake in one pan.
2. Soft and Chewy Texture: The combination of ingredients creates a soft, chewy texture that is incredibly satisfying.
3. Frosting Options: You can choose between a rich buttercream frosting or a creamy cream cheese frosting, making it versatile for different tastes.
4. Perfect for the Holidays: These bars capture the essence of the holiday season with their warm spices and festive flavors.
5. Great for Sharing: Cut them into squares or rectangles, and they make perfect treats for parties or gift-giving.

Ingredients

For the Gingerbread Cookie Bars:

• 3/4 cup melted butter (1 1/2 sticks)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Buttercream Frosting Option:

• 1/2 cup butter (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups powdered sugar (sifted)

Cream Cheese Frosting Option:

• 6 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9″x13″ baking dish.

1. Mix Wet Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with both sugars until smooth.
• Add in the room temperature egg and molasses; mix until well combined.

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

1. Combine Mixtures:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

1. Transfer to Baking Dish:

• Transfer the dough into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle a small amount of flour on your hands to prevent sticking as you press the dough evenly into the pan.

1. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

1. Cool Completely:

• Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

1. Make Frosting:

• While the bars are cooling, prepare your frosting of choice.
• For buttercream: Beat together softened butter, milk, vanilla extract, and sifted powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
• For cream cheese frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and melted butter until creamy; then add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until well mixed.

1. Frost Bars:

• Once cooled, spread your chosen frosting over the top of the cookie bars. Add sprinkles if desired for an extra festive touch.

1. Slice and Serve:
   • Cut into squares or rectangles and serve!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 24 bars
• Calories per serving: About 200 calories
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 100mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes

How to Serve

You can serve these delicious gingerbread cookie bars in various ways:

• As a festive dessert during holiday gatherings.
• Packaged as gifts for friends or family.
• Served alongside coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
• Cut into smaller pieces for bite-sized snacks at parties.

Additional Tips

1. Storage: Store leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
2. Freezing Options: Freeze unfrosted bars for up to three months; thaw before frosting and serving.
3. Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste; add more ginger for extra kick!
4. Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add more milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Decorative Touches: Use holiday-themed sprinkles or edible glitter on top of your frosting for added festivity.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?

• Yes! Dark brown sugar will add a deeper flavor but may slightly alter the color.

1. What can I substitute for molasses?

• You can use honey or maple syrup as alternatives; however, it will change the flavor profile slightly.

1. Can I make these gluten-free?

• Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend suitable for baking.

1. How do I know when my cookie bars are done baking?

• They should be set around the edges but may appear slightly soft in the center; a toothpick should come out with moist crumbs.

1. Can I use store-bought frosting?

• Absolutely! Store-bought frosting works well if you’re short on time.

1. How long do these cookie bars last?

• They can last up to one week at room temperature or longer if refrigerated.

1. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

• Yes! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chips before baking for added texture.

1. Is it necessary to frost these bars?

• No! They are delicious on their own without frosting if you prefer them that way.

1. What’s the best way to cut these bars?

• Use a sharp knife; wiping it clean between cuts will help achieve neat slices.

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
   • Yes! You can bake them a day in advance; just frost them before serving.

Conclusion

These gingerbread cookie bars are not only delightful but also incredibly easy to make! With their soft texture and rich flavors of spices like ginger and cinnamon, they capture everything we love about traditional gingerbread while offering convenience in bar form. Whether you choose buttercream or cream cheese frosting—or enjoy them plain—they are sure to become a staple during your holiday celebrations! So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this festive treat with family and friends—happy baking!

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